UNLESS YOU’VE BEEN living under a rock, you’ll know that the Deposit Return Scheme has been up and running in Ireland since February 1, 2024.

Here at The Journal, we previously talked through everything you needed to know about the scheme - from the deposit fee to the participating retailers and reverse vending machines. 

At the time of the launch, the aim of the game was to encourage more recycling by allowing consumers to redeem a deposit if they return plastic bottles and cans to designated points. As part of the scheme, a small deposit fee has been added to cans and bottles that will be refunded to the customer once the container is returned. It was hoped that this new initiative would see a dramatic reduction in litter and an increase in the amount of plastic bottles and aluminium and steel cans we recycle. 

With the launch of the Deposit Return Scheme, Ireland has joined the likes of Germany and Sweden, who operate similar schemes. The scheme aligns with other circular economy initiatives in Ireland that aim to move away from the ‘take, make and dispose’ culture to one of returning valuable materials and keeping them in the economy for as long as possible. 

So, how have we fared against other countries in Europe? And eight months on, what are the benefits that we’ve seen from the Deposit Return Scheme?

Check out the video above to have all your questions answered. 

Find out more about the the Deposit Return Scheme here and get involved today.